Australians are being urged to support the new appliance water efficiency rating scheme that will be mandatory from 1 July 2006 as part of World Water day, announced the Federal Member for La Trobe, Mr Jason Wood.

“The Water Efficiency Labelling and Standards Scheme — or WELS — will label appliances rated for water efficiency, similar to the way that they are now labelled for energy efficiency. The more stars the better!” Mr Wood said.

“WELS is a cooperative scheme involving all Australian governments. NSW, Victoria, the ACT and Tasmania all have complementary WELS legislation in place.”

Australian families are being given a helping hand in their efforts to save water and save money on their water and energy bills.

“By using a 4-star washing machine compared to a 1-star machine every day, the average Australian household could save nearly 47,000 litres of water every year,” he said.

“Using a water-efficient showerhead standard with gas hot water will cost around $790 over a ten year period compared to $1500 for a standard showerhead in the same period — saving Australian consumers money.”

The WELS scheme will reward manufacturers who develop improved and efficient products and the retailers who support this innovative scheme.

Manufactures and importers of WELS appliances will be required to label WELS appliances and retailers required to sell labelled products following the mandatory 1 July 2006 introduction.

WELS is part of the Australian Government’s overall strategy to conserve water across Australia.

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“I encourage all La Trobe residents to take part in this scheme, and benefit themselves, their environment and our Australian industries,” Mr Wood said.

For more information: www.waterrating.gov.au

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